If you like reading mysteries, you have probably picked up on the secret of a good one; a well-made mystery gives you enough clues throughout so when the big reveal is made, you feel smart for picking up on them. The story of Jesus’ coming was not dissimilar to that! The prophets and the law were set down as a body of clues that pointed to his coming.

I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness— the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.

Colossians 1:25-29

The purpose of that reveal was not just to leave a satisfying ending to the story, however. Jesus’ coming was the fulfillment of the word of God, the completion of a plan that spanned all of history. In the same way, those who accept it become fulfilled, growing into a mature spiritual person, presentable to God.

Ethan Kirl